Reference number: CH000868

How do I determine the version of a driver in Windows?

Question:

How do I determine the version of a driver in Windows?

Answer:

Microsoft Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000, and XP users can determine the version of the drivers installed in their computer by following the below steps.

1. Open Device Manager. Additional information about getting into Device Manager can be found on document CH000833.
2. Within Device Manager locate and double-click the device you wish to view the version of. Note: you will need to click the '+' next to the device type before viewing the device. For example, to view the video card you would click the '+' next to Display adapters and double-click the video card.
3. Within the device properties click the Driver tab.
4. Within the Driver tab you'll be able to view the Driver Provider, Driver Date, and Driver Version of that device.

Looking at the Driver Date is a good first indication of whether or not you have an up-to-date driver. If you see that the driver is more than 1-2 years old checking to see if there is a later version of the driver is a good idea. Once you've visited the hardware manufacturers web page you can quickly determine if you have the latest driver by comparing the version available on the site with the version on your computer.

A listing of links to manufacturers driver pages can be found through our driver section.

Additional information:

• See our driver dictionary definition for additional information about this term.
• Additional help and information with installing a driver can be found on document CH000834.